This month's IWSG question is about book covers. "Do you create your own covers or purchase them? Or if you are traditionally published, do you have a say in what your cover looks like?"
I've had experience with self-publishing and traditional publishing. With self-publishing, I designed the covers myself, gave my ideas to professionals, and they made the covers look good. I don't think I have the skills to create a professional-looking cover myself. Same with the interior illustrations. For the most part, the illustrations for my self-published picture books are my own ideas. Admittedly, I was hoping the illustrators would come up with their own creative ideas so I could be more surprised by their interpretations, but I was still pleased with the results.
Regarding my traditionally published books, the publisher's illustrator came up with the covers himself. I liked being surprised by his ideas. Yes, I had to approve the covers, but I really didn't have any changes. I'm sure if for some reason, I didn't like them, changes would have been made.
Here are some pictures of my book covers. The first three are self-published. The others are traditionally published.
.jpg)
If you're an author, what kind of role did you have in designing your covers?
(And some good news: The next Bubba and Squirt book, City of Bones is on its way. The contract has been signed!)
